Save It A quick and flavorful way to revive leftover salmon and rice using a clever microwave steaming trick, finished with fresh toppings for a balanced meal.
I first tried this method after a busy night, unsure if cold salmon and rice could be rescued for lunch. The microwave steaming trick made everything moist and appealing, and my family asked for this bowl again the next week.
Ingredients
- Cooked white or brown rice: 1 cup, leftover
- Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
- Ice cubes: 2, for microwave steaming
- Soy sauce or tamari: 2 tablespoons (for gluten-free use tamari)
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Cucumber: 1, thinly sliced
- Pickled ginger: 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Scallion: 1, finely sliced
- Optional chili flakes or sriracha: as desired
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients:
- Flake the cooked salmon and slice avocado, cucumber, scallion. Set aside toppings.
- Assemble Bowl:
- Place leftover rice into a microwave-safe bowl. Top with flaked salmon.
- Steam in Microwave:
- Put 2 ice cubes on top. Cover bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat:
- Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes until ice melts and rice and salmon are heated through and moist.
- Finish:
- Remove from microwave. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over contents.
- Add Toppings:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, sesame seeds, and scallion on top. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the bowl immediately while warm.
Save It My favorite family moments are when everyone builds their own bowl, adding different toppings. It’s a fun way to get kids involved with healthy eating and lets us use whatever leftovers we have.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board are essentials to assemble this meal in minutes.
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame. Use tamari for gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: 410. Total Fat: 18 g. Carbohydrates: 36 g. Protein: 27 g.
Save It This leftover salmon & rice bowl is a smart solution for quick lunches or dinners. Bright, fresh, and satisfying every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → How does the microwave steaming trick work?
Placing ice cubes over rice and salmon releases steam as they melt, gently reheating without drying out.
- → Can I use another type of fish or protein?
Absolutely, cooked fish like trout or even tofu can be substituted for salmon for variety or dietary needs.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce to ensure your meal remains gluten-free and equally flavorful.
- → What toppings work best for extra flavor?
Add crunch and color with avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, scallion, and sesame seeds. Try chili flakes for heat.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, shredded nori, carrot ribbons, or edamame add more nutrients and visual appeal to your bowl.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
You can prep toppings in advance and quickly steam leftovers for easy lunches or fast dinners.